It was a real privilege to represent three University of Manchester staff networks at Staff Network Day – Women@Manchester, as a core committee member; the Dharmic Cultures Network, as a core committee member; and the Vegan+ Staff Network, as co-chair.

The day was a lovely reminder of how powerful our staff networks are in bringing colleagues together from across different parts of the University. I had some brilliant conversations with colleagues who were keen to learn more about the networks, share their own experiences, and understand how they, their families, friends or colleagues could connect with the work we do.

For the Vegan+ Staff Network, it was especially encouraging to see genuine interest from colleagues who may not identify as vegan or vegetarian themselves, but who were connected to the topic through their family members, friends or colleagues. Many were keen to share those perspectives, ask questions, and contribute their thoughts on what the network could offer. We used a blank canvas to capture ideas, expectations and reflections from both members and non-members, which helped create open conversations and increase awareness of the network.

It was also great to connect with colleagues from the Hospitality Network, where there is a very natural link with Vegan+. Our conversations highlighted how catering, events and hospitality across the University can become more inclusive by considering vegan and vegetarian options more thoughtfully and consistently.

There is also a meaningful connection between vegan and vegetarian food and the principles that sit at the heart of the Dharmic Cultures Network. Within many Dharmic traditions, food choices are deeply connected to Dharma – duty, responsibility and cosmic righteousness – and Karma, the universal law of cause and effect. These are closely linked with the principle of Ahimsa, or non-violence. It was heartening to see how many colleagues are already thinking deeply about self-awareness, compassion and wellbeing, which are also core principles reflected through the Dharmic Cultures Network.

And of course, Women@Manchester continues to be a powerful and inspiring community, with almost 1,000 members. I was pleased to help set up the stand before other committee members arrived, and it was fantastic to see the level of interest from colleagues and senior leaders in the work in terms of various interest clubs such as Speaking Club, Travel Club, Buddy Scheme, and many upcoming, we have been doing. It was also a proud moment to reflect on the breadth of activity, support and connection the network continues to offer across the University.

A few people asked me how I manage to give time to three networks. My honest answer was that I try to contribute as much as I can, because this work keeps me connected to my passion. It gives me the opportunity to share my own thoughts and experiences, listen to others, and contribute in a small but meaningful way to a more inclusive, thoughtful and connected University community.

Staff Network Day was a great reminder that EDI is not just about formal structures or policies – it is also about everyday conversations, curiosity, shared learning and creating spaces where colleagues feel seen, heard and welcomed.

Some glimpses from the day, including moments with our Executive and Senior Leadership colleagues.

Sarah Fox (Director of EDI), Patrick PJ Hemmaway (Chief Information Officer), Bharti Gupta (Project & Business Change Manager, IT Services), Rachel Cowan (Professor in Manchester School of Medicine and University Lead for EDI – Gender and Sexual Orientation)

Patrick Hackett (Registrar, Secretary and COO of the University), Bharti Gupta (Project & Business Change Manager, IT Services), Emma Shiels (co-chair of Women@Manchester & Teaching Learning and Student Experience Co-ordinator), Laura Earnshaw-Jones (Engagement Coordinator)

By Bharti Gupta, AI Pathfinder Project & Business Change Manager, IT Services

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